Media Releases

Parents throughout the region are reminded that the new law on supplying alcohol to minors has come into effect as of 1 November.
It is now illegal for adults to supply young people with alcohol in private homes without parental permission.
“Research clearly shows that alcohol can cause young people harm, and it is important that measures are taken to ensure the safety of our children,” said Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh.
“We have changed the law to give parents more control over where, when and how their children are exposed to alcohol.”
Consumer Affairs Minister Michael O’Brien said the law addressed concerns of parents about a previous loophole that allowed minors to be supplied with alcohol in private homes.
“People can now face fines of more than $7,000 if they break the law by supplying a minor with alcohol in their home without the consent of that minor’s parent or guardian,” he said.
Mental Health Minister Mary Wooldridge said most people want to do the right thing, which is why the Victorian Coalition Government has set aside $1 million for an education and awareness campaign on the new law.
“This campaign will help make sure that the law is well understood, and support and guide parents who want to talk to their children about alcohol,” Ms Wooldridge said.
Information about the new law and the education campaign is available from www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/teendrinkinglaw.